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PRAYERS 


DELIVERED  BEFORE  THE  MEMBERS' OF  THE 
FORTY-THIRD  ASSEMBLY  OF  THE 
CALIFORNIA  LEGISLATURE 

wmmr  of 

Q ^ 9 * v1  Y 

Ji  V |w 


BY 

REV.  ROBERT  L.  McARTHUR,  S.T.B 

Pastor  First  Methodist  Episcopal  Church 
Woodland,  California  % 


Printed  at  the  request  of  the  Assemblymen 


California  State  Printing  Office 


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264;/  ' 

✓Vl  / / p 


To  the  members  and  attaches  of  the  forty-third 
Assembly  of  the  California  Legislature,  who  have 
always  been  kind  and  courteous  to  me  and  whose 
companionship  I have  greatly  enjoyed,  I dedicate 
this  little  book. 

Robert  l.  McArthur, 

Chaplain. 

LsJ 

DC 

EB 

CD 


CONTENTS. 


PRAYERS 


Page 


Opening  Prayer 5 

Sorrow  5 

Thanksgiving  6 

Forgiveness  7 

Blessings 8 

Guidance 9 

Eight  on  Social 

Problems  1 0 

A Sense  of  God’s 

Presence  11 

Gratitude  for  Friendship  12 

God’s  Right  of  Way 13 

Consolation  14 

For  Help 15 

Home  15 

Easting  Peace 17 

Before  Recess 18 

Blessings  By  the  Way 19 

In  Touch  With  the 

Infinite  20 

Worth  While 21 

Acquaintance  21 

Industrial  Peace 22 

A Christian  Heritage 23 

Going  With  God 24 

Birthday  25 

God  Calling 27 

Community  of  Interests  28 
Our  Week-Day 

Congregation  29 

The  Manly  Thing 30 

Christian  Privileges 31 

God’s  Nearness 32 

Worship  33 

God’s  Holiday 33 


Page 


Eeaning  God’s  Way 34 

Sympathy  With  the 

Unfortunate 35 

Aspirations 36 

Waiting  on  God 37 

Eord’s  Prayer 37 

The  Needy  Ones’ 

Friend  38 

Communion  39 

God  Calling 40 

Right  Thoughts  About 

God  40 

Joy  of  Out  of  Doors- 41 

Prayer  by — Dr. 

Franklin  D.  Mather 43 

Human  Need 43 

A Wireless  Message 44 

The  Joy  of  Helping 45 

Christian  Ideals 46 

Eife’s  Stress 47 

Keeping  Right 48 

Our  Goal  49 

Our  Mishap 50 

Death  51 

Motherhood  52 

Right  Words  and 

Thoughts  53 

Joint  Responsibility 54 

Patriotism 55 

Rest  and  Peace 56 

Joy — Rove — Unity  57 

Calvary  58 

The  Shadows 59 

Easter  Joy 60 

Closing  Prayer 62 


CALIFORNIA  LEGISLATURE 

FORTY-THIRD  SESSION 


PRAYERS 

OPENING  PRAYER 

(January  Sixth) 

OH  God — God  of  our  fathers,  we  are 
glad  that  Thou  hast  never  betrayed 
our  sacred  trust  in  Thee,  and  so  with  con- 
fidence we  come,  asking  Thy  blessing  upon 
us. 

We  pray  for  our  nation.  Grant  all  those 
in  authority  wisdom  and  help  in  their  daily 
work.  May  they  be  true  to  their  trust  and 
sensitive  to  the  best  interest  of  all  con- 
cerned. May  Thy  guiding  hand  direct  the 
destinies  of  the  nations  of  the  world  so  that 
Thy  kingdom  may  come,  bringing  peace  on 
earth  and  good  will  among  men ; and  to 
Thee  we  will  ascribe  all  the  glory  forever. 
Amen. 

* * * 

SORROW 

(January  Seventh) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  while  we  forget 
not  Thy  holiness  and  wisdom  and 
power,  we  are  drawn  to  Thee  this  morning 
because  of  Thy  heart  of  love  and  sympathy. 
5 


There  are  so  many  lonely  hearts  today. 
Our  nation  is  sad.  The  whole  world  weeps. 
If  it  has  not  been  the  cruel  hand  of  war,  it 
is  the  pestilence  that  walketh  at  noonday. 
All  the  way,  from  those  great  in  national 
affairs  to  the  humblest  cottager,  there  are 
heartaches.  Teach  us  the  meaning  of  it  all 
so  we  may  say,  gladly,  Thy  will  be  done. 
Graciously  send  the  promised  Comforter 
and  help  us  to  bear  each  other’s  burdens,  so 
that  no  one  may  weep  alone.  In  the  name 
of  Him  who  suffered  for  us  all  we  present 
our  petition.  Amen. 

* * * 
THANKSGIVING 

(January  Eighth) 

FATHER — Our  prayer  this  morning  is 
a song  of  thanksgiving.  We  thank 
Thee  for  the  morning  light — emblem  of 
eternal  light  and  life. 

We  thank  Thee  for  the  dawning  of  a new 
era  of  world-wide  brotherhood. 

We  thank  Thee  for  our  nation,  and  the 
principles  for  which  our  people  stand. 

We  thank  Thee  for  our  own  beloved 
California,  with  its  sun-kissed  valleys,  its 
snow-capped  mountains,  its  beauty  every- 
where that  reveals  the  handiwork  of  a 
Master  Workman. 


6 


We  thank  Thee  for  great  hearts  who  are 
willing  to  “live  in  a house  by  the  side  of  the 
road  and  be  a friend  to  man.” 

We  thank  Thee  for  homes,  where  children 
laugh  and  play,  and  wife  and  mother  greet 
us  with  a smile  at  the  end  of  the  day. 

We  thank  Thee  for  every  institution  that 
puts  hope  and  cheer  and  right  aspirations 
into  men’s  lives. 

We  thank  Thee  for  the  example  we  have 
in  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 

* * * 

FORGIVENESS 

(January  Ninth) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  Thou  hast  said 
in  Thy  word,  “If  we  confess  our  sins 
Thou  art  faithful  and  just  to  forgive  us 
our  sins.” 

If  we  have  ever  transgressed  Thy  com- 
mandments ; 

If  we  have  ever  brought  discredit  upon 
the  great  family  of  God ; 

If  we  have  ever  made  hearts  ache; 

If  we  have  ever  caused  our  brother  to 
lose  faith  in  men ; 

If  we  have  ever  turned  any  from  paths 
of  virtue  or  integrity ; 

If  we  have  in  any  way  cast  a shadow  over 
the  pathway  of  our  fellow  men ; 


7 


If  we  have  ever  turned  aside  from  the 
highest  Good;  forgive  as  we  forgive  each 
other.  Amen. 

* * * 

BLESSINGS 

(January  Tenth) 

OUR  Father,  we  come  this  morning!  with 
outstretched  hands  and  upturned 
hearts,  seeking  material  blessings  and 
spiritual  gifts. 

Bless  the  rivers  and  the  valleys,  the 
forests  and  the  mountains,  so  that  they  may 
yield  abundantly  the  things  that  are  essential 
to  our  material  well-being. 

Graciously  enrich  our  lives  with  noble 
ambitions,  pure  motives,  and  abounding  joy. 

Give  us  a faith  in  God,  our  fellow  man 
and  ourselves,  that  saves ; a hope  that  sings 
in  the  shadows ; a love  that  suffereth  long 
and  is  kind. 

Give  us  a heart  that  sympathizes  with 
everybody;  a mind  that  runs  parallel  with 
Thine  own;  a soul  that  claims  kinship  with 
Thyself. 

Give  us  a courage  that  laughs  at  difficul- 
ties and  a vision  that  sees  the  highest  good, 
so  that  we  may  measure  up  to  the  perfect 
stature  of  men  and  women  in  Christ  Jesus. 
Amen. 


8 


GUIDANCE 

(January  Thirteenth) 

OUR  Father,  as  we  begin  the  duties  of 
another  week,  we  look  to  Thee  for 
guidance. 

We  desire  not  to  live  unto  ourselves  alone, 
but  unto  Thee.  Thou  hast  promised  to  lead 
and  guide  Thy  children  into  all  truth. 
Gladly  we  would  follow  Thee,  believing  Thy 
way  is  best. 

Guide  us  in  our  relations  with  others  so 
we  may  not  thoughtlessly  or  needlessly 
bring  sorrow  or  disappointment  to  anyone; 
but  may  we  help  Thee  heal  the  hurt  of  the 
world. 

Guide  us  in  the  tumult  and  struggle  and 
noise  of  our  daily  life  so  we  may  not  go 
astray. 

Guide  us  to  that  place  where  the  sunshine 
of  Thy  smile  is  ever  seen  and  the  warmth  of 
Thy  love  is  ever  felt. 

Show  us  Thy  face.  Help  us  to  behold 
Thy  beauty  and  glory  here  and  finally  bring 
us  to  Thy  everlasting  kingdom  through 
Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 


2—45658 


9 


LIGHT  ON  SOCIAL  PROBLEMS 

(January  Fourteenth) 

FATHER,  often  we  have  prayed  “Thy 
kingdom  come,  Thy  will  be  done  on 
earth  as  it  is  in  heaven” — Heaven  is  the 
place  where  there  are  no  tears — no  sorrow 
— no  heartaches — no  sickness — no  hunger — 
no  failures. 

What  have  we  done  to  have  our  prayer 
answered  ? 

What  have  we  done  to  dry  the  tears  that 
continually  blind  the  eyes  of  so  many? 

What  have  we  done  to  turn  the  sorrows 
of  others  into  joy? 

What  have  we  done  to  remove  the  things 
that  make  men’s  hearts  bleed? 

What  have  we  done  to  make  it  harder  for 
disease  and  sickness  to  fasten  itself  upon  us? 

Have  we  shared  our  plenty  with  those 
less  fortunate,  so  that  none  cry  for  bread  ? 

Have  we  stayed  by  the  fellow  who  has 
failed  and  failed  again  in  the  struggle  for 
manhood,  for  character,  for  self-respect ; 
have  we  stood  by  not  only  with  our  good 
wishes  but  with  all  we  possess,  ready  and 
anxious  to  help? 

Father,  show  us  the  path  wherein  duty 
lies  in  all  our  social  and  economic  life,  and 
help  us  to  answer  the  prayer  Jesus  taught 
us  to  pray.  Amen. 


10 


A SENSE  OF  GOD’S  PRESENCE. 

(January  Fifteenth) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  we  would  like 
to  feel  that  Thou  art  near.  We  would 
like  to  know  that  Thou  art  interested  in  us 
individually  as  well  as  collectively.  Touch 
our  lives  some  way  so  we  may  feel  and 
know  that  Thou  art  God.  In  the  morning 
may  we  see  Thy  smiling  face ; at  the  noon- 
day may  we  be  refreshed  by  Thy  bounty;  at 
the  evening  time  may  we  receive  Thy  bene- 
diction, and  while  we  rest  at  night  may  we 
feel  that  we  are  in  the  care  and  keeping  of 
Him  who  never  slumbers  nor  sleeps. 

Oh  Thou  who  can  heal  all  our  diseases ; 
who  can  comfort  every  broken  heart ; who 
can  give  strength  for  every  burden ; Thou 
who  can  help  us  overcome  temptation ; may 
we  feel  that  Thou  art  so  near  that  when  we 
call  upon  Thee  Thou  wilt  answer  us  right 
early. 

If  we  should  grow  weary  in  well-doing 
lure  us  to  the  hill  country  of  Christian  holi- 
ness, where  the  dew  of  heaven  freshens  the 
morning  hour,  where  the  sun  of  righteous- 
ness brightens  the  noon-day  of  life,  and 
where  the  quiet  stillness  of  the  twilight  hour 
makes  Thy  presence  felt,  while  through  it 
all  comes  the  vigor  of  eternal  life. 


li 


When  our  labors  are  all  ended  may  we 
fall  asleep  in  Thy  keeping  and  not  be  afraid. 
Amen. 

* * * 

GRATITUDE  FOR  FRIENDSHIP. 

(January  Sixteenth) 

FATHER,  we  thank  Thee  for  the  friend- 
ships of  life,  friendships  that  link  us  up 
with  yesterday,  today  and  tomorrow. 

We  thank  Thee  for  the  friendships  of 
youth ; for  the  boys  and  girls  who  stood  by 
us  in  our  work  and  in  our  play,  when  we 
were  good  and  when  we  were  bad,  with  a 
devotion  akin  to  His  who  said,  “I  will  never 
leave  thee  nor  forsake  thee.” 

Forgive  us,  our  Father,  if  sometimes  we 
get  a bit  homesick  for  the  old  home  and  the 
friends  of  yesterday. 

We  thank  Thee  for  the  friendships  of 
today ; for  friends  who  will  share  with  us 
everything  they  have ; for  great  hearts  who 
would  sooner  suffer  themselves  than  see 
others  suffer;  for  friends  who  rejoice  with 
us  when  we  rejoice  and  weep  with  us  when 
we  weep ; for  friends  who  correct  us  with  a 
tenderness  and  love  akin  to  mother’s ; for 
friends  whose  great  personality  calls  forth 
the  best  in  us. 

We  thank  Thee  for  the  friendships  that 
link  us  up  with  the  eternities.  Some  of  us 
12 


have  more  friends  yonder  than  here.  We 
are  glad  that  neither  time  nor  space  can 
obliterate  or  even  dim  the  friendships  we 
have  one  with  another  and  with  Thee,  our 
Father,  and  with  Thy  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Saviour.  Amen. 

* * * 

GOD’S  RIGHT  OF  WAY 

(January  Seventeenth) 

FATHER,  we  would  let  Thee  have  the 
right  of  way  in  our  lives  today  and 
every  day.  We  believe  we  get  the  most  out 
of  life  when  we  do  what  Thou  wouldst  have 
us  do  and  be  what  Thou  wouldst  have  us  be. 
We  would  walk  in  Thy  ways,  believing  that 
“Thy  ways  are  ways  of  pleasantness  and  all 
Thy  paths  are  peace.”  Yea,  we  would  run 
in  the  ways  of  Thy  commandments,  anxious 
to  gain,  here  and  now,  the  prize  of  our  high 
calling  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus  and  anxious 
to  gain,  bye  and  bye,  the  crown  of  life  that 
fadeth  not  away. 

May  our  citizenship  not  only  be  in  heaven, 
but  may  we  have  such  a vision  of  the  mean- 
ing and  worth  and  glory  of  Thy  kingdom 
that  we  will  exclaim,  with  the  psalmist,  “I 
delight  to  do  Thy  will,  oh  my  God !” 

Incline  not  only  us  but  all  mankind  to 
walk  in  Thy  ways  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.  Amen. 


13 


CONSOLATION 

(January  Twentieth) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  we  thank  Thee 
for  the  sunshine  and  the  rain,  the  light 
and  the  shadows.  We  are  so  glad  that 
Thou  art  mindful  of  all  our  needs.  Thou 
art  not  only  present  in  our  joys,  but  the 
dark  clouds  can  not  hide  Thy  blessed  face. 
Help  us  all  to  feel  and  know  that  God  does 
care  for  His  own.  We  remember  those  of 
our  number  who  are  sick.  May  they  feel 
that  we  are  interested  in  them,  and  that  they 
are  in  Thy  care  and  keeping.  Bless  the 
means  used  to  restore  them  to  their  wonted 
health  and  strength.  Guide  the  hands  that 
minister.  Comfort  the  hearts  that  are 
anxious  and  inspire  all  with  abounding  hope 
and  joy. 

Stay  very  near  to  those  who  are  lonely 
and  sad  because  those  near  to  them  have 
said  a last  good-bye  on  earth. 

Buoy  us  all  up  with  the  eternal  hope  that 
in  Thy  brighter  and  better  kingdom  we  may 
be  unbroken  families — and  meet  again  those 
whom  we  have  loved  long  since,  yet  lost 
awhile.  In  Christ’s  name  we  pray.  Amen. 


14 


FOR  HELP 

(January  Twenty-first) 

OUR  Father,  come  near  to  us  this  morn- 
ing and  bless  us  so  we  may  be  better 
fitted  for  the  duties  of  today. 

Teach  us  Thy  way;  help  us  to  walk  in 
Thy  truth. 

Incline  our  hearths  to  fear  Thee  and  our 
lips  to  praise  Thee. 

Give  us  a love  that  would  befriend 
everybody. 

May  we  be  a friend  to  those  who,  through 
ignorance  or  temptation,  have  wandered 
into  sin. 

Guide  our  footsteps  in  the  shadows,  so 
that  we  stumble  not. 

Help  us  to  live  day  by  day,  so  that  this 
old  world  will  be  better  because  of  our 
presence  here,  and  others,  seeing  our  good 
works,  will  be  inclined  to  serve  Thee, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 

* * * 

HOME 

(January  Twenty-second) 

FATHER,  we  pray  today  for  our  homes. 

May  Thy  benediction  be  upon  the 
homes  of  our  land  and  every  land.  Grant, 
our  Father,  that  the  motive  that  makes  men 
and  women  plight  their  lives  each  to  the 
other  may  be,  not  so  much  a desire  for 
15 


material  gain  or  selfish  pleasure,  as  a faith 
that  worketh  by  love.  God  save  us  from  a 
confidence  and  hope  misplaced. 

May  every  member  of  the  family  have 
such  an  interest  in  the  integrity  and  purity 
and  happiness  of  the  home  that  temptations 
to  betray  or  (be  untrue  will  lose  their  power. 

May  our  domestic  burdens  be  lightened 
by  every  member  bearing  his  share  of  the 
load. 

May  our  homes  foster  every  good  motive, 
holy  purpose  and  high  ideal. 

Bless  the  babies.  How  their  smile  drives 
away  dull  care ! 

Bless  our  youth.  Shield  them  from  things 
that  harm.  May  they  experience  the  holiest 
joys  of  life,  and  have  a vision  of  the  highest 
good. 

Bless  the  wives  and  mothers.  May  their 
kindly  ministrations  be  rewarded  by  the 
love  and  devotion  of  every  member  of  the 
household. 

Bless  us  who  are  fathers.  May  we  set  a 
good  example,  and  may  our  shoulders  be 
made  strong  to  carry  our  burdens. 

Comfort  the  aged  and  infirm. 

Keep  us  from  things  that  harm  in  any 
way,  and  may  we  honor  Thee  and  love  one 
another  as  Thou  hast  loved  us.  Amen. 


16 


LASTING  PEACE 

(January  Twenty-third) 

FATHER,  we  pray  for  the  time  when 
righteousness  and  peace  shall  cover  the 
old  earth  "as  the  waters  cover  the  face  of 
the  mighty  deep.” 

So  much  material  wealth  has  been  de- 
stroyed ; so  many  hearts  have  been  broken ; 
so  many  hopes  crushed;  so  many  children 
made  to  suffer;  so  many  homes  left  deso- 
late ; so  many  of  our  noblest  have  been 
slain;  so  many  are  sad  and  will  not  be 
comforted;  surely  the  world  has  paid  the 
price  of  an  enduring  peace. 

May  the  world  not  only  be  free  from  the 
cruel  ravages  of  war,  but  may  it  be  free 
from  the  unrest  of  industrial  strife. 

To  this  end  guide  those  woh  sit  around 
the  tables  of  the  "Peace  Conference”  of 
nations. 

May  the  nations  of  the  earth  learn  to  "do 
justly,  to  love  mercy,  and  to  walk  humbly 
before  God,”  so  that,  being  properly  related 
to  Thee  they  may  have  a right  attitude 
toward  each  other. 

And  “While  for  all  mankind  we  pray — 

For  every  clime  and  coast — 

Oh,  hear  us  for  our  native  land, 

The  land  we  love  the  most.” 

And  in  our  individual  life  may  the  peace 
17 


3—45658 


of  God  which  passeth  knowledge  remain 
and  abide  with  us  ever  more.  Amen. 

* * * 

BEFORE  RECESS 

(January  Twenty-fourth) 

OUR  Father,  before  we  separate  for  a 
little  while,  we  would  publicly  express 
our  appreciation  of  Thy  tender  care  and 
good  will.  Thou  hast  shared  our  joys  and 
helped  us  bear  our  burdens.  Thy  chidings 
have  been  tempered  with  love.  Thy  magna- 
nimity has  called  forth  our  admiration  and 
lured  us  to  noble  deeds.  In  sickness  or  in 
health,  in  joy  or  in  sorrow,  we  have  not  been 
afraid,  believing  we  were  in  Thy  care  and 
keeping. 

Grant  to  every  member  and  attache  of 
this  Assembly  a happy  home  coming.  May 
all  our  homes  be  places  where  laughter  is 
heard ; where  health  and  strength  abound  ; 
where  plenty  smiles ; where  hope  inspires ; 
where  God  is  honored  and  prayer  is  made. 
If  there  are  any  who  have  no  family  rela- 
tion, may  they  at  least  be  privileged  to  live 
in  the  atmosphere  of  an  ideal  home. 

Bring  us  all  back  again  with  renewed 
energies,  eager  and  willing  to  serve  our 
constituents,  our  country  and  our  God. 
Amen. 


18 


BLESSINGS  BY  THE  WAY 

(February  Twenty-fourth) 

FATHER,  we  do  not  come  to  renew  our 
acquaintance  with  Thee,  but  to  bless 
Thee.  Whilst  we  have  been  separated  from 
each  other  we  have  always  known  that 
Thou  wert  near  by.  Thy  power  hast  kept 
us.  Thy  smile  hath  cheered  us.  Thy  hand 
hath  led  us.  Thy  wisdom  hath  inspired  us. 
Thy  love  hast  won  us.  Thy  glory  hast 
encircled  us ; and  so  with  united  breath  we 
would  exclaim  “Bless  the  Lord,  oh  my  soul, 
and  all  that  is  within  me  bless  His  holy 
name.” 

The  privilege  of  gathering  around  our 
own  fireside  has  made  life  sweeter.  The 
hearty  welcome  and  handshake  of  those  who 
know  us  best  strengthened  our  faith  in 
human  brotherhood. 

Help  us  gladly  and  with  courage  to  meet 
our  new  duties  and  opportunities  to  serve. 

Bless  our  President ; guide  aright  the 
afifairs  of  our  nation. 

Bless  our  Governor;  may  citizens  of  this 
state  have  a foretaste  of  heavenly  citizen- 
ship. 

Bless  every  member  and  attache  of  this 
Assembly,  and  may  all  feel  the  sacredness 
of  the  trust  committed  to  them ; and  when 

19 


this  session  is  ended  may  we  all  hear  Thee 
say,  “Well  done,  good  and  faithful  servant/’ 
Amen. 

* * * 

IN  TOUCH  WITH  THE  INFINITE 

(February  Twenty-fifth) 

OH  God,  we  thank  Thee  that  around  and 
about  us  continually  are  Thine  ever- 
lasting arms. 

During  our  unconscious  slumber  Thy 
guardian  angel  broods  over  us. 

During  our  play  the  laughter  of  heaven 
cheers  us  on. 

During  our  work  we  are  assured  that  Thy 
grace  is  sufficient  for  us. 

Thou  canst  heal  all  our  diseases,  and  help 
carry  our  burdens. 

Thou  canst  dry  our  tears  and  scatter  our 
gloom. 

Thou  canst  enlarge  our  hearts  and 
increase  our  joys. 

Thou  canst  enrich  our  minds  and  enhance 
the  meaning  of  life. 

Thou  canst  thrill  our  bodies  with  the 
exhilaration  of  eternal  youth. 

Thou  canst  waft  our  souls  into  the  very 
presence  of  things  eternal  and  holy. 

Gladly  we  would  put  our  hand  in  Thine 
and  say,  “Lead  Thou  me  on,”  until  we  come 

into  the  Christ  likeness.  Amen. 

20 


WORTH  WHILE 

(February  Twenty-sixth) 

OH  God,  help  us  all  to  put  forth  every 
effort  to  “make  our  calling  and  elec- 
tion sure.”  Thou  hast  called  us  to  be  noble 
and  good  and  worth  while.  We  would  like 
Thee,  oh  Christ,  to  be  a partner  with  us  in 
the  great  business  of  life. 

At  the  close  of  each  day  we  would  like  to 
have  a balance  on  the  side  of  righteousness. 

May  we  be  interested  enough  in  honor 
and  virtue  and  brotherliness  to  invest  some- 
thing in  these  staple  articles. 

Help  us  all  to  live  so  our  neighbors  will 
like  us. 

Help  us  to  be  as  kind  to  others  as  Thou 
art  to  us. 

Make  our  lives  so  wholesome  and  sunny 
and  real  that  we  will  always  help  and  not 
hinder. 

Take  away  from  us  that  contagious  thing 
which  when  other  people  get  they  have 
heartaches,  for  Christ’s  sake.  Amen. 

* * * 

ACQUAINTANCE 

(February  Twenty-seventh) 

WE  thank  Thee,  oh  God,  that  Thy 
mercies  are  new  every  morning ; and 
Thou  art  mindful  of  all  our  needs.  Thou 
art  generous  and  kind  and  helpful  always. 
21 


We  would  like  to  get  better  acquainted 
with  Thee,  so  that  we  might  never  feel 
etnbarassed  in  Thy  presence. 

We  would  like  to  feel  that  Thou  hast 
taken  us  into  Thy  confidence  and  art  willing 
to  reveal  to  us  the  things  of  God. 

Thy  treasure  houses  of  knowledge,  of 
love,  of  power,  are  so  great  we  revel  in  the 
thought,  and  yet  we  read  in  Thy  word  that 
all  things  are  ours  and  no  good  thing  wilt 
Thou  withhold  from  those  who  walk  up- 
rightly. Truly  ours  is  a goodly  heritage. 

Grant  us  an  attitude  of  mind  and  heart 
capable  of  appreciating  the  best  things  of 
earth  and  heaven, — and  Thy  name  shall 
have  all  the  praise.  Amen. 

* * * 

INDUSTRIAL  PEACE 

(February  Twenty-eighth) 

FATHER,  we  pray  for  a contented 
work-a-day  world.  Instead  of  the 
rough  note  of  discord  in  the  industrial 
world,  may  we  hear  the  music  that  comes 
from  the  harmony  of  voices  tuned  by  God 
himself. 

We  long  for  the  day  when  women’s  work 
shall  be  a joy,  and  men  shall  sing  and 
whistle  as,  in  office  or  shop  or  field,  they  do 
with  their  might  what  their  hands  find  to  do. 


Hasten  the  time  when  everybody  shall 
feel  that  right  prevails. 

May  the  work  that  has  to  be  done  for  the 
welfare  and  happiness  of  us  all  be  so  divided 
that  no  one's  lot  will  be  so  hard  as  to  make 
him  bitter  or  despondent. 

May  the  dark  and  stormy  night  of  discon- 
tent and  selfishness  among  rich  and  poor, 
high  and  low,  soon  end,  and  may  the  dawn 
of  a new  day  have  written  on  the  horizon : 
The  peace  of  God ; the  righteousness  of 
heaven ; the  brotherhood  of  man,  has  come ! 
To  this  end  we  hope  and  pray,  in  Christ's 
name.  Amen. 

* * * 

THE  CHRISTIAN  HERITAGE 

(March  Third) 

FATHER,  we  thank  Thee  for  the 
heritage  of  a Christian  faith. 

A faith  that  makes  us  children  of  God 
himself ; 

A faith  that  makes  us  heirs  of  God,  and 
joint  heirs  with  Jesus  Christ  to  the  best  that 
heaven  and  earth  afford ; 

A faith  that  removes  mountains,  changes 
the  course  of  rivers,  shapes  the  destinies  of 
nations ; 

A faith  that  turns  men's  hearts  after  God  ; 
A faith  that  leads  our  thoughts  out  into 
the  workshop  of  the  Almighty ; 


A faith  that  brings  our  souls  into  fellow- 
ship with  eternal  verities ; 

A faith  that  takes  God  by  the  hand  and 
walks  with  Him  out  into  the  fields  of 
science,  across  the  brook  into  the  power 
house  of  the  ages,  over  the  meadow  land 
into  the  garden  of  eternal  beauty,  beyond 
the  river  of  life  to  God’s  joyland,  the  glories 
of  which  “Mind  can  not  conceive  nor  tongue 
express,  neither  hath  it  entered  into  the 
heart  of  man  the  things  God  hath  laid  up  in 
store  for  those  who  love  Him”;  while  God 
in  us  whispers  all  things  are  ours.  For  this 
faith  we  bless  Thee  now  and  always.  Amen. 

* * * 

GOING  WITH  GOD 

(March  Fourth) 

OH  God,  we  would  begin  the  day  with 
Thee.  Thy  morning  smile  is  worth 
while.  It  makes  the  springtime  and  sum- 
mer and  autumn  and  winter  of  life  all  alike 
bright  and  beautiful. 

We  would  like  to  go  with  Thee  all  the 
day,  and  behold  Thy  ministrations;  learn 
Thy  wisdom;  enjoy  Thy  companionship; 
feel  the  impulse  of  Thy  great  personality ; 
see  things  from  Thy  standpoint  and  learn 
their  relative  value. 


24 


We  would  like  to  be  with  Thee  alone  on 
the  mount  where  the  wild  flower  and  the  tall 
pines  whisper  Thy  praise. 

We  would  like  to  be  with  Thee  in  the 
busy  marts  of  life  and  behold  the  greatness 
of  Thy  soul,  as  none  is  turned  away  who 
look  to  Thee  for  help. 

We  would  like  to  be  with  Thee  where 
men  pray  and  see  the  love  light  in  Thy 
eye,  the  eagerness  of  Thy  sympathy,  the 
swiftness  of  Thy  strong  right  arm. 

Oh  Father,  we  would  like  to  begin  and 
continue  and  end  the  day  with  Thee  until 
we  know  Thee  perfectly,  through  Christ  our 
Lord.  Amen. 

* * * 

BIRTHDAYS 

(March  Fifth) 

OH  God,  we  thank  Thee  for  man’s  noble 
parentage.  “In  the  beginning  God 
created  man  in  his  own  image.”  May  none 
of  us  forget  our  family  relation  so  far  as  to 
bring  discredit  upon  the  household  of  God. 
May  the  passing  years  not  dim  our  vision 
of  the  eternal  worth  of  right  living.  May 
none  of  us  sell  our  birthright  for  a mess  of 
pottage. 

We  thank  Thee  for  everything  that  helps 
to  keep  us  true  to  our  high  calling.  For 


4 — 45658 


25 


everything  that  makes  us’  ask  ourselves: 
Are  we  busy  with  the  things  we  ought  to  be 
busy  with?  Are  we  keeping  away  from  the 
things  we  ought  to  keep  away  from? 

We  thank  Thee  for  that  something  that 
makes  us  sensitive  to  evil  so  that  we  may 
shun  it;  and  sensitive  to  good  so  that  we 
may  pursue  it. 

We  thank  Thee  for  birthdays  that  make 
us  feel  we  are  a little  nearer  the  end  of  the 
journey  and  a little  nearer  giving  an  account 
of  our  stewardship. 

Bless  the  speaker  of  this  Assembly. 
Touch  his  life  this  year  and  every  year  as 
the  spring  sunshine  and  showers  touch  the 
ripening  grain  in  the  field  and  the  rosebush 
in  the  garden. 

Bless  the  mothers,  who  press  to  their 
loving  hearts  babies  whose  first  birthday 
fills  their  soul  with  joy  unspeakable.  And 
as  these  babies  grow  to  manhood  and 
womanhood  may  each  succeeding  birthday 
bring  a holier  joy  to  the  mother's  heart. 

Bless  the  fathers,  whose  hopes  run  high 
as  they  see  their  boys  and  girls  grow  up 
with  clean  hands  and  pure  hearts,  enriching 
the  world  by  their  noble  deeds  and  conquer- 
ing spirits. 


26 


Bless  us  all.  Give  us  many  birthdays,  and 
grant  that  we  may  all  be  born  anew  in  Thy 
kingdom,  through  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 

* * * 

GOD  CALLING 

(March  Sixth) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  we  bless  Thee 
for  our  high  calling  of  God  in  Christ 
Jesus.  We  are  continually  calling  to  Thee. 
We  have  so  many  wants.  We  need  Thy 
help  so  much,  that  is  why  we  continually 
call  to  Thee ; but  Thou  art  calling  to  us. 
Thou  art  calling  to  us  to  go  Thy  way.  May 
we  know  Thy  call.  May  we  heed  Thy  call. 

In  the  din  and  noise  of  life  may  we  not 
mistake  Thy  voice.  The  poet  says  “it’s  like 
music  that  charms  our  fears  and  bids  our 
sorrows  cease/’ 

Thou  art  continually  calling  us  to  some- 
thing better.  Ever  and  anon  from  some 
vantage  ground  we  hear  Thee  say : "Come 
on/5 

“Jesus  calls  us  o’er  the  tumult 
Of  our  life’s  wild,  restless  sea; 

Day  by  day  His  sweet  voice  soundeth, 
Saying,  ‘Christian,  follow  me.’ 

“In  our  joys  and  in  our  sorrows, 

Days  of  toil  and  hours  of  ease — 

Still  he  calls,  in  cares  and  sorrows, 
‘Christian,  love  me  more  than  these.’  ” 


27 


a 


Gladly  we  would  follow  Thee.  Help  us 
“to  run,  and  not  grow  weary ; to  walk,  and 
not  grow  faint” ; until  we  reach  Thy  goal. 
Amen. 

* * * 

COMMUNITY  OF  INTERESTS 

(March  Seventh) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  we  pray  for  a 
community  of  interests  in  our  physical 
and  moral  make-up. 

If  we  have  discord  in  our  own  life  we  will 
be  apt  to  have  discord  in  all  our  earthly 
relationships. 

Forbid  that  we  should  get  so  busy  think- 
ing about  laws  and  things  that  pertain  to 
our  material  life  that  we  will  beggar  our 
souls  and  leave  them  hungry  and  naked,  to 
our  shame  and  sorrow,  when  God  calls  us 
to  give  an  account  of  the  spiritual  life  He 
lias  intrusted  to  us. 

Help  us  to  remember  that  the  observance 
of  God’s  laws  is  more  important  than  the 
observance  of  any  man  may  make  that  are 
out  of  harmony  with  God’s  programs. 

As  lawmakers  making  laws  to  govern 
man’s  well-being,  we  might  do  well  to  get 
in  touch  with  Him  who  made  us ; and  that 
wisdom  that  knows  man’s  purpose  and  des- 
tiny ; and  that  love  that  is  neither  selfish 
nor  partisan;  and  with  that  justice  that  is 
28 


always  kind ; and  that  mercy  that  is  from 
everlasting  to  everlasting. 

May  we  be  willing  to  learn  of  Him  Who 
knows  the  law  that  puts  the  rosy  cheek  on 
the  apple  and  the  fragrance  in  the  flower 
to  the  music  of  the  songbird,  Who  makes 
planets  intermingle  with  planets  to  the 
music  of  the  stars. 

Thou  Who  knowest  the  eternal  fitness  of 
things  and  the  way  of  harmony  and  pro- 
gress, reveal  Thyself  to  us,  we  humbly  pray. 
Amen. 

* * * 

OUR  WEEK-DAY  CONGREGATION 

(March  Tenth) 

FATHER,  we  thank  Thee  for  this  our 
week-day  congregation.  They  are  just 
about  as  human  as  our  Sunday  congrega- 
tions. They  are  just  as  dear  to  our  hearts 
as  anybody,  and  they  are  just  as  dear  to 
Thy  heart  as  anybody. 

We  pray  that  Thou  wilt  bless  them  all. 
Forgive  their  sins,  strengthen  their  good 
desires  and  holy  ambitions. 

Implant  hope  in  their  hearts  if  they  get 
discouraged. 

If  their  burdens  are  heavy  give  them  a 
lift. 

May  there  be  a gleam  of  sunshine  in  their 
souls  every  day. 


29 


May  the  smile  of  heaven  kiss  every  loved  - 
one  in  all  our  homes  today. 

May  we  all  come  to  know  Thee  whom  to 
know  aright  is  life  eternal.  Amen. 

* * * 

THE  MANLY  THING 

(March  Eleventh) 

FATHER,  we  know  as  well  as  Thou 
dost  that  we  are  not  as  perfect  as  we 
might,  be. 

Our  education  has  not  always  been  such 
as  to  give  us  the  right  perspective  of  life. 

Sometimes  the  goal  set  before  us  was 
belittling  to  children  of  the  Great  King  and 
beggared  our  souls.  Sometimes  it  was 
wealth ; sometimes  it  was  power ; sometimes 
it  was  pleasure ; and  we  must  win  the  goal 
if  we  would  succeed. 

The  game  has  been  played  with  lessening 
enthusiasm,  and  the  goal  has  been  a bit 
disappointing. 

We  have  been  misled  and  have  lost  the 
way  of  life  sometimes,  and  yet  our  faces  are 
turned  toward  the  east.  Our  true  selves 
call  for  Christian  democracy,  world  brother- 
hood, the  kingdom  of  God  on  earth. 

We  know  there  are  a lot  of  things  that 
ought  to  be  done,  and  unless  we  do  them 
this  old  world  will  be  a wreck  upon  the 
shores  of  time. 


30 


Oh  Thou  divine  Christ,  show  us  the  way 
out ; show  us  the  manly,  womanly,  brotherly, 
righteous  thing  to  do,  and  we  will  give  Thee 
our  hand  and  pledge  Thee  our  faith  until 
Thy  kingdom  shall  come,  and  Thy  will  be 
done  on  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Amen. 

* * * 

CHRISTIAN  PRIVILEGES 

(March  Twelfth) 

OH  God,  we  thank  Thee  that  Thine  ear 
is  open  to  our  prayers ; Thy  heart  is 
responsive  to  our  love ; Thine  arms  are 
outstretched  to  receive  us. 

Sometimes  we  forget  our  privileges  and 
wander  away  from  our  Father's  home.  We 
get  into  the  far  country  and  the  night  of  sin 
o'ertakes  us,  and  then  our  hearts  cry  out 
for  the  good  things  of  our  heavenly  Father. 

Oh  God,  we  want  to  be  obedient  children 
of  thine.  We  want  a place  at  Thy  table. 
We  want  to  be  on  good  terms  with  all  our 
brothers  and  sisters. 

Forgive  us  if  we  have  made  Thee  anxious 
for  our  well-being. 

Forgive  us  if  we  have  not  appreciated 
Thy  fatherly  goodness. 

Forgive  us  if  we  have  not  listened  to 
Thee. 

Make  us  hungry  for  the  bread  of  life. 


Make  us  thirsty  for  the  water  of  life. 
Make  us  lonesome  for  our  Father's  home. 
Make  us  homesick  for  heaven. 

For  Thy  name's  sake.  Amen. 


* * * 


GOD’S  NEARNESS 

(March  Thirteenth) 


E thank  Thee,  oh  God,  that  Thou 


V V art  not  an  absentee  God  or  a far 
away  God,  but  one  who  is  near  by. 

We  see  Thy  providence  in  the  growing 
grain  and  the  budding  trees. 

We  see  Thy  beauty  in  flower  and  shrub, 
in  mountain  and  valley. 

We  hear  Thy  voice  in  the  roaring  torrent, 
the  rippling  brook,  the  sighing  wind. 

We  see  Thy  power  in  the  mountain  pine, 
the  rainbow,  the  dewdrop. 

We  see  Thy  love  in  the  gift  of  Thine 
only  Son. 

We  see  Thy  footprints  in  the  busy  marts 
of  life ; on  the  lonely  mountain  trail ; in  the 
valley  where  the  shadows  lengthen ; yea, 
every  place  where  men  need  help. 

We  see  Thyself  in  men  giving  themselves 
for  others  in  deeds  of  love  and  mercy. 

May  a sense  of  Thy  nearness  help  us  to 
keep  Thee  in  our  thoughts  more;  for  our 
good  and  Christ's  glory.  Amen. 


32 


WORSHIP 

(March  Fourteenth) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  we  pause  just  a 
moment  to  worship  Thee.  May  Thy 
glory  overshadow  us.  May  the  mantle  of 
Thy  love  fall  upon  us.  Give  us  the  true 
spirit  of  communion. 

We  bow  our  heads  and  hearts  in  humble 
adoration,  for  Thou  art  holy. 

May  we  have  Thy  blessings.  May  we 
hear  Thy  voice.  May  we  see  Thy  face. 
May  we  feel  Thy  presence. 

We  seek  the  help  that  comes  from  being 
linked  up  with  the  Almighty. 

May  our  morning  sacrifice  be  acceptable 
to  Thee. 

Journey  with  us  today.  At  evening  time 
grant  us  Thy  peace,  through  Christ  our 
Lord.  Amen. 

* * * 

GOD’S  HOLIDAY 

(March  Fifteenth) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  Thou  hast  said 
in  Thy  word  that  Thy  ways  are  ways 
of  pleasantness  and  all  Thy  paths  are  peace. 
May  Thy  ways  be  our  ways.  May  Thy 
paths  be  our  paths.  May  our  experience  be 
such  as  will  enable  us  to  say,  “I  delight  to 
do  Thy  will,  oh  my  God.” 


33 


We  thank  Thee  that  the  Lord  of  all  the 
earth  hath  declared  holiday  one  day  in 
seven,  and  has  invited  us  all  to  be  His 
guests.  He  hath  prepared  a feast  of  good 
things,  and  says,  “Come,  for  all  things  are 
now  ready.” 

May  the  day  of  rest  be  helpful.  May  Thy 
sanctuary  be  attractive.  May  the  fellowship 
of  saints  be  ennobling. 

May  our  hearts  and  minds  and  souls  be  so 
strengthened  by  the  day  of  rest  that  we  will 
be  better  fitted  to  serve  Thee  and  one 
another — for  Christ’s  sake.  Amen. 

MM* 

LEANING  GOD’S  WAY 

(March  Seventeenth) 

WE  thank  Thee,  oh  God,  for  this 
company  of  men  and  women  whose 
faces  are  turned  toward  the  light ; men  and 
women  who  are  willing  to  pause  a moment 
in  the  busy  treadmill  of  life  to  acknowledge 
Thy  sovereignty,  to  seek  Thy  blessing,  to 
a^sk  Thy  guidance. 

Anticipate  their  heart  longings  after  Thee 
by  the  kindest  providence ; heart  longings 
that  some,  as  yet,  have  not  expressed  in 
words. 


34 


May  they  all  feel  that  all  their  interests 
are  dear  to  the  heart  of  Him  who  neither 
slumbers  nor  sleeps. 

Talk  to  them  when  they  are  lonely; 

Chide  them  when  they  are  wayward ; 

Gird  them  when  they  are  storm-tossed, 
and  finally  bring  us  all  to  the  desired 
haven,  through  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 

* * * 

SYMPATHY  WITH  THE  UNFORTUNATE 

(March  Eighteenth) 

FATHER,  we  pray  this  morning  for 
those  who  are  not  as  well  situated  as 
we  are.  We  would  not  be  selfish.  Show  us 
our  proper  attitude  toward — 

Those  who  are  hungry  for  bread ; 

Those  who  are  hungry  for  sympathy ; 
Those  who  are  hungry  for  fellowship ; 
Those  whose  courage  almost  fails  them 
because  they  have  no  work  to  do ; and  those 
whose  strength  almost  fails  because  their 
work  is  so  exacting. 

Give  us  sympathy  for  those  who,  because 
of  sin,  have  been  robbed  of  their  birthright  ; 
those  whose  minds  are  feeble;  those  whose 
wills  are  weak ; those  in  whose  hearts  noble 
purposes  have  died. 


35 


Forbid  that  any  of  us  should  wreck  our 
own  souls  by  trying  to  make  profit  out  of 
those  less  fortunate  than  we  are. 

Give  us  all  the  spirit  of  Him  who  said 
“Bear  ye  one  another's  burdens."  In  His 
name  we  pray.  Amen. 

* * * 

ASPIRATIONS 

(March  Nineteenth) 

OH  God,  stay  near  us  today  and  every 
day,  and  may  we  all  be  conscious  of 
Thy  nearness.  Our  thoughts,  our  words, 
our  deeds,  are  influenced  by  those  who  are 
near  us  and  see  us  and  understand  us.  May 
our  long  acquaintance  with  Thee  not  make 
us  careless  or  indifferent,  as  it  sometimes 
does  with  earthly  friends. 

Guard  our  thoughts  so  that  passion  or 
envy  or  untruth  may  not  rob  us  of  a happy 
disposition. 

Guard  our  words  so  that  there  may  be  no 
misunderstanding  or  needless  heartaches. 

Guard  our  actions  so  that  none  may  be 
led  astray  or  have  his  ideals  lowered. 

Help  us,  oh  Thou  Divine  Christ,  in  this 
our  struggle  after  right  living.  Amen. 


36 


WAITING  ON  GOD 

(March  Twentieth) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  we  read  in  Thy 
Word  “They  that  wait  upon  the  Lord 
shall  renew  their  strength ; they  shall  mount 
up  with  wings  as  eagles ; they  shall  run  and 
not  be  weary ; they  shall  walk  and  not 
faint.” 

We  want  our  strength  renewed;  strength 
of  body,  strength  of  mind,  strength  of  soul. 

We  want  strength  to  rise  above  trifles, 
above  difficulties,  above  clouds. 

We  want  strength  to  run  in  the  way  of 
Thy  commandments  and  not  weary  in  well- 
doing. 

We  want  strength  to  walk  even  down 
through  the  valley  of  the  shadow  of  death 
and  fear  no  evil. 

Oh  my  soul,  wait  thou  upon  the  Lord,  for 
He  hath  said  none  that  wait  upon  Him  shall 
be  ashamed.  Amen. 

* * * 

LORD’S  PRAYER 

(March  Twenty-first) 

OUR  Father  who  art  in  heaven,  hallowed 
be  Thy  name.  Thy  kingdom  come, 
Thy  will  be  done  in  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven. 
Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread,  and  for- 
give us  our  debts  as  we  forgive  our  debtors. 
37 


And  lead  us  not  into  temptation,  but  deliver 
us  from  evil.  For  Thine  is  the  kingdom, 
and  .the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever. 
Amen. 

* * * 

THE  NEEDY  ONES^  FRIEND 

(March  Twenty-second) 

OH  God,  a ray  of  light  divine  shines  into 
our  souls  when  we  read  in  Thy  Word ; 
if  we  call  upon  Thee,  Thou  wilt  answer  us. 
And  we  do  not  even  have  to  express  our 
desires  in  so  many  words  to  get  Thy  ear, 
or  Thy  sympathy,  or  Thy  help.  We  bless 
Thee  for  this  fact. 

No  tears  fall,  no  hearts  throb  with 
anguish,  no  noble  struggles  go  on  in  men’s 
souls  but  God  hears  and  answers  right 
away. 

No  mother  sings  a song  of  hope,  as  she 
rocks  the  cradle,  that  God  does  not  hear. 

No  father’s  heart  heaves  a sigh  for  his 
wayward  child,  that  God  does  not  answer. 

No  lonely  heart  sighs  for  helpful  com- 
radeship, that  the  Son  of  Man  does  not 
draw  near. 

No  sinner  feels  his  need  of  a Saviour, 
that  the  great  High  Priest  does  not  minister 
to  him. 


38 


No  heart  sighs  for  relief  from  life's  heavy 
burdens,  but  God  says,  “My  grace  is 
sufficient  for  you.” 

We  thank  Thee  for  an  answer  to  our 
prayer,  uttered  or  unexpressed.  Accept  our 
thanks,  in  Christ's  name.  Amen. 

* * * 

COMMUNION 

(March  Twenty-fourth) 

OH  God,  our  Heavenly  Father,  ere  we 
begin  the  duties  of  another  week, 
we  would  pause  a moment  to  commune  with 
Thee.  Give  us  the  wings  of  the  morning 
that  we  may  rise,  above  the  noise  of  the 
city,  above  the  clamor  of  men's  voices, 
above  the  morning's  fog  into  Thy  eternal 
sunlight,  and  there  stand  alone  with  Thee, 
just  for  a moment,  with  all  the  world  shut 
out. 

If  we  can  but  see  Thy  face  and  hear  Thy 
voice,  and  behold  Thy  beauty,  and  feel  the 
presence  of  Thy  great  personality  just  for  a 
moment,  life  will  mean  more  to  us  than 
ever  before,  and  our  work  will  seem  worth 
while. 

Gladly  we  stop  long  enough  to  recognize 
and  greet  Thee,  and  hear  Thee  say  good 
morning. 

We  wait  Thy  blessing  in  the  Redeemer's 
name.  Amen. 


39 


GOD  CALLING 

(March  Twenty-fifth) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  while  we  con- 
tinually call  upon  Thee,  expecting  an 
answer,  we  remember  that  Thou  art  calling 
to  us. 

As  individuals  Thou  dost  call  us  to 
repentance,  to  faith,  to  forgiveness,  to  holy 
ideals,  to  hold  council  with  Thyself,  to  sing 
with  the  angels,  to  suffer  with  men. 

Thou  art  calling  nations  to  recognize  Thy 
leadership,  to  obey  Thy  laws,  to  love  Thy 
ways,  to  pay  their  vows. 

Thou  hast  called  the  world  to  do  Thee 
homage,  to  acknoweldge  Thy  sovereignty, 
to  exalt  Thy  throne,  to  bow  at  Thy  foot- 
stool, to  seek  to  establish  Thy  kingdom  of 
brotherly  love,  righteousness  and  peace. 

We  would  heed  Thy  call.  We  would 
measure  up  to  Thy  expectations.  To  this 
end  help  us,  we  pray,  in  Christ’s  name. 
Amen. 

* * * 

RIGHT  THOUGHTS  ABOUT  GOD 

(March  Twenty-Sixth) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  help  us  to  have 
right  thoughts  about  Thee.  Forgive 
us  if  our  finite  minds  have  little  thoughts  or 
wrong  thoughts  about  infinite  justice  and 
love.  As  we  come  before  Thee  we  lift  our 

40 


voices  and  cry  “Holy,  Holy,  Holy,  Lord 
God  Almighty";  so  purify  our  hearts  and 
enlighten  our  minds  that  we  may  feel  the 
significance  of  our  words. 

May  we  walk  with  Thee,  and  talk  with 
Thee,  and  journey  with  Thee,  yea,  even  toil 
and  suffer  with  Thee,  until  we  come  to 
know  Thee  aright,  whom  to  know  aright  is 
life  eternal. 

May  our  thought  life  here  be  such  that 
we  will  always  feel  at  home  in  Thy  pres- 
ence, and  when  this  mortal  shall  have  put 
on  immortality,  and  our  souls  wing  their 
way  across  the  fields  of  endless  day,  may 
we  know  even  as  we  are  known,  and  to 
Thee  we  will  give  the  glory  forever.  Amen. 

* * * 

PRAYER 

(March  Twenty-seventh) 

By  Rev.  S.  Fraser  Langeord,  D.D., 
Chaplain  of  the  Senate. 

* * * 

JOY  OUT  OF  DOORS 

(March  Twenty-eighth) 

OH  God,  Thou  art  good.  All  Thy 
creations  are  good.  The  world  of 
nature  bid  us  such  a happy  good-morning 

' 41 


it  (seems  as  though  we  could  gladly  bear  any 
burden  our  daily  round  of  duty  might 
present. 

The  splendor  of  the  morning  sun  chased 
away  all  the  darkness.  May  we  open  the 
windows  of  our  souls  so  the  Light  of  the 
World  can  shine  in. 

The  tiny  flower  and  budding  tree  by  the 
way  smiled  to  us  a happy  good-morning. 

The  sweetness  that  fills  the  air,  the 
diamond  dewdrop  as  it  sparkles  on  flower 
and  shrub  and  meadow-land,  tells  us  the 
great  High  Priest  has  sprinkled  His  incense 
everywhere. 

The  meadow  lark  sang  and  then  soared, 
and  then  sang  again  so  sweetly  it  seemed  as 
though  all  heaven  would  stop  and  listen. 

“We  thank  Thee,  Lord,  that  Thou  hast  made 
The  earth  so  bright; 

So  full  of  splendor  and  of  joy, 

Beauty  and  light. 

w So  many  glorious  things  are  here, 

Noble  and  right.” 

Accept  our  thanks  for  the  inspiration  of 
it  all.  Amen. 


42 


PRAYER 

By  Franklin  D.  Mather,  Member  from 
the  Sixty-seventh  Assembly  District. 

(March  Twenty-ninth) 

OUR  Father  who  art  in  heaven;  at  the 
beginning  of  the  work  of  the  day  we 
would  pause  a moment  for  communion  with 
Thee.  We  would  lift  up  our  eyes  to  Thee, 
whence  cometh  our  help.  Because  Thy 
loving'  kindness  is  better  than  life  our  lips 
shall  praise  Thee.  Because  Thou  hast  been 
our  help,  therefore  in  the  shadow  of  Thy 
wings  will  we  rejoice.  We  read  in  Thy 
Word  that  it  is  better  to  trust  in  Thee  than 
to  put  our  confidence  in  men.  We  believe 
it,  for  Thou  art  all-powerful,  and  with  Thee 
there  is  no  variableness  nor  shadow  of  turn- 
ing, and  Thou  art  more  interested  in  us 
than  it  is  possible  for  us  to  be  interested  in 
one  another.  Wilt  Thou  this  day  preserve 
us  in  integrity  and  uprightness  and  lead  us 
in  the  way  of  truth  and  righteousness,  for 
Thy  name’s  sake.  Amen. 

-K  * * 

HUMAN  NEED 

(March  Thirty-first) 

FATHER,  we  look  to  Thee  this  morning 
for  help  and  courage  and  light. 

We  are  encouraged  to  do  this  because  we 
believe  Thy  Word,  which  says : “My  grace 

43 


is  sufficient  for  you.”  We  are  encouraged 
to  look  to  Thee  because  Thou  hast  heard 
and  answered  our  prayers  in  the  past. 

We  want  to  be  helped  out  of  our  littleness 
and  selfishness  toward  the  Christ  likeness. 

We  want  a courage  that  will  go  through 
Gethsemane  and  climb  Calvary. 

We  want  a light  that  will  reveal  to  us  the 
rocks  upon  which  character  is  wrecked,  and 
the  slough  of  despond  in  which  souls  lose 
hope. 

We  want  Thee  to  reveal  to  us  the  glory 
of  the  soul  that  climbs  toward  God.  And 
as  we  look  to  Thee  may  we  see  Thee  coming 
toward  us.  Amen. 

* * -k 

A WIRELESS  MESSAGE 

(April  First) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  we  want  to  send 
a wireless  message  to  Thee  this  morn- 
ing, and  some  of  us  are  not  real  sure  that 
our  hearts  are  in  tune  with  Thy  heart,  and 
after  our  cry  goes  out  we  wonder  if  God 
hears. 

We  know  that  Thou  are  holy  and  just  and 
full  of  mercy  and  truth  and  love,  and  unless 
our  lives  are  sensitive  to  and  in  harmony 
with  these  things  our  messages  will  not 


44 


come  nigh  Thee,  and  the  needed  help  will 
not  come. 

Oh  Thou  Divine  Christ,  send  a message 
to  every  heart  this  morning  so  we  may 
know  we  are  in  touch  with  Thee,  and  know 
that  all  heaven  stands  ready  to  assist  us. 

Sometimes  we  are  storm-tossed  and  need 
Thee  right  away. 

Sometimes  our  burdens  press  us  sore. 

Sometimes  we  just  want  to  tell  Thee  that 
we  love  Thee. 

But  day  or  night,  on  land  or  sea,  we  want 
to  know  that  we  are  in  touch  with  Thee. 
This  gives  us  a power  and  confidence  and 
peace  that  we  can  get  nowhere  else.  We 
bless  Thee  for  the  privilege  we  have 
through  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 

* * * 

THE  JOY  OF  HELPING 

(April  Second) 

WE  thank  Thee,  our  Heavenly  Father, 
for  the  joy  of  doing  something  for 
others.  Our  best  days  are  the  days  we 
have  helped  someone  by  our  words  of  cheer, 
our  sympathetic  smile,  and  our  kindly 
deeds ; the  days  we  encourage  someone  who 
is  about  ready  to  give  up ; the  days  we  give 
others  laughter ; the  days  we  share  the  best 
we  have  with  others ; the  days  we  play  the 

45 


part  of  the  Good  Samaritan;  the  clays  we 
win  someone  to  his  better  self.  These  are 
the  gala  days  in  our  memory  now.  They 
will  be  our  hearts'  stay  when  our  hand  leans 
upon  the  staff.  They  will  be  our  crown  of 
glory  when  the  judge  of  all  the  earth  shall 
say  “Inasmuch  as  ye  have  done  it  unto  one 
of  the  least  of  these,  my  brethern,  ye  have 
done  it  unto  Me." 

May  we  not  miss  the  joy  of  laboring  with 
Thee  to  heal  the  world's  hurt.  Amen. 

* * * 

CHRISTIAN  IDEALS 

(April  Third) 

OH  God,  Thou  who  art  holy,  just  and 
good ; teach  us  Thy  way.  Help  us  to 
properly  relate  today  to  tomorrow.  Show 
us  the  relation  of  morality  to  world  con- 
quest, to  community  betterment,  and  to  soul 
development. 

Help  us  to  shun  the  lusts  of  the  flesh  that 
drag  us  lower  than  the  beasts  of  the  field. 
Give  us  hearts  in  every  thought  renewed. 
Give  us  lips  that  refrain  from  uttering 
unclean  things. 

Give  us  minds  that  run  parallel  with 
Thine  own. 

Give  us  souls  that  climb  Godward. 


46 


Give  us  a zeal  for  everything*  that  makes 
homes  happier,  gives  children  a better  birth- 
right, makes  the  Bible  Thy  Book,  puts  Thy 
laws  in  men’s  minds  and  writes  them  in 
their  hearts. 

Give  us  as  our  goal  the  kingdom  of  God 
on  earth,  where  purity  and  truth  and  peace 
flow  like  a river. 

These  things  we  pray  for,  in  Christ’s 
name.  Amen. 

* * * 

LIFE’S  STRESS 

(April  Fourth) 

OUR  Father,  feeling  the  responsibility 
that  rests  upon  us,  and  knowing  our 
weakness,  and  how  impatient  we  become, 
and  how  we  must  rely  upon  someone  for 
support  and  aid  and  sympathy,  we  come  to 
Thee,  and  in  the  language  of  the  poet 
exclaim : 

“Oh  Master,  let  me  walk  with  Thee 
In  lowly  paths  of  service  free; 

Teach  me  thy  secret — help  me  bear 
The  strain  of  toil,  the  fret  of  care.” 

Thou  hast  the  secret  that  supports  when 
friends  fail  us,  when  our  hearts  fail  us. 

Thou  hast  the  secret  that  sustains  us 
when  temptations  press  us  sore,  when 

47 


enemies  plot  against  us,  when  Satan  laughs 
at  us. 

Thou  hast  the  secret  that  sustains  us 
when  the  load  is  heavy,  when  the  day  is  dark 
and  there  is  no  sunshine  anywhere. 

Help  us  to  remember  that  in  the  secret  of 
Thy  presence  there  is  rest,  sweet  rest;  there 
is  peace,  sweet  peace. 

Hide  us  in  Thy  pavilion  till  the  storm 
passes  and  the  day  is  bright  again,  and  our 
lips  shall  praise  Thee.  Amen. 

* * * 

KEEPING  RIGHT 

(April  Fifth) 

OH  God,  our  Heavenly  Father,  we  pause 
just  a moment,  to  acknowledge  Thy 
claim  upon  us  and  to  seek  divine  aid. 

Forgive  us  if  we  have  sinned  against 
Thee.  Forgive  us  if  we  have  cast  a shadow 
over  the  pathway  of  any  of  our  fellowmen. 
Forgive  us  if  we  have  sinned  against  our 
own  soul’s  eternal  welfare,  and  love  us 
freely  and  lead  us  in  the  way  everlasting. 

Grant  us  wisdom  today  so  the  path  of 
duty  may  be  plain. 

Give  us  strength  to  abide  by  our  convic- 
tions of  duty  and  of  right. 

May  what  is  done  here  today  be  pleasing 
in  Thy  sight  and  helpful  to  all  concerned. 

48 


At  the  end  of  the  day  may  every  member 
and  attache  of  this  Assembly  have  Thy 
smile  and  approval. 

Graciously  hear  and  answer  the  prayer 
we  make,  in  Christ’s  name.  Amen. 

* * * 

OUR  GOAL 

(April  Seventh) 

FATHER,  we  would  begin  the  week 
with  Thee.  We  thank  Thee  for  this 
new  day.  We  thank  Thee  for  yesterday, 
with  its  opportunity  for  soul  culture.  We 
thank  Thee  for  the  privileges  of  the  sanctu- 
ary, the  place  “where  heaven  comes  down 
our  souls  to  greet,  While  glory  crowns  the 
mercy  seat.” 

We  thank  Thee  for  the  joy  that  is  set 
before  us, — the  joy  expressed  in  the  words 
“Thy  kingdom  come,  Thy  will  be  done  on 
earth  as  it  is  in  heaven.” 

We  bless  Thee  for  the  challenge  that 
comes  to  us  to  be  bigger  than  self,  to  be 
stronger  than  temptation,  to  be  mightier 
than  the  forces  of  evil. 

We  feel  honored  in  being  called  to  help 
shape  the  destinies  of  our  nation.  Keep 
our  faces  ever  set  toward  Jerusalem. 

May  none  of  us  be  a disappointment  to 
Thee  this  week,  but  may  tomorrow  find  us, 

49 


not  only  a day’s  march  nearer  home,  but  a 
little  nearer  the  prize  of  our  high  calling  of 
God  in  Christ  Jesus. 

To  this  end  help  us,  we  pray.  Amen. 

* * * 

OUR  MISHAP 

(April  Eighth) 

OH  God,  some  of  us  have  not  read  Thy 
Book  as  we  should.  Some  of  us  have 
not  communed  with  Thee  as  we  should. 
Some  of  us  have  not  listened  to  Thy  mes- 
sengers as  we  should.  We  have  listened  to 
the  sirens  of  sin  and  have  been  lured  upon 
the  rocks  and  into  the  quicksands,  and 
unless  Thou  dost  help  us  we  will  make 
shipwreck  of  life. 

Oh  God,  come  to  us  and  heal  our  broken 
bodies ; come  to  us  and  teach  us  the  way  of 
life ; come  to  us  and  regird  our  souls.  Come 
to  us  and  pilot  our  frail  bark  toward  the 
promised  land,  and  ere  the  sun  goes  down 
in  the  west  may  we  enter  the  desired  haven. 

Give  us  all  a passport  to  the  city  of  the 
Great  King, — 

“Where  the  night  shall  be  filled  with 
music, 

And  the  cares  that  infest  the  day, 

Shall  fold  their  tents  like  the  Arabs, 

And  as  silently  steal  away.” 


50 


Amen. 


DEATH 

(April  Ninth) 

E thank  Thee,  our  Father,  for  every 


V V experience  that  enlarges  and  enriches 
our  lives : experiences  that  clarify  our  vi- 
sion, broaden  our  sympathy,  and  strengthen 
our  brotherly  love. 

The  experience  of  our  Speaker  this 
morning  makes  our  thoughts  run  on  and 
on  to  that  country  from  which  no  traveler 
returneth.  We  would  assure  him  of  our 
sympathy  and  love.  We  would  mingle  our 
tears  with  those  whose  hearts  are  sad. 

Ever  and  anon — “Lest  we  forget,  Lest  we 
forget” — we  are  reminded  that  our  times 
are  in  God's  hands.  We  sometimes  imagine 
that  our  times  are  in  our  own  hands.  We 
say  today,  “We  will  go  yonder  and  get  gain 
or  pleasure”;  and  tomorrow,  “We  will 
return,  so  we  won’t  say  good-bye.”  But 
some  morning  soon,  very  soon,  perhaps,  for 
some  of  us,  God  will  come  and  say : “Get 
ready,  for  at  evening  time  thy  soul  shall  be 
required  of  thee.”  And  we  will  say:  “Wait 
a little;  I am  not  quite  ready.  I have  so 
many  things  to  do.”  But  the  impatient 
charioteer  will  say  “Come  on !”  and  we  will 
have  to  go,  and  looking  back  we  will  faintly 
say  a last  good-bye : “Good-bye  old  earth ; 
good-bye  money ; good-bye  mother ; good- 


51 


bye  sweetheart;  good-bye  my  darling  baby 
boy;  good-bye,  good-bye,  good-bye.” 

As  we  think  of  that  land  where  tears 
never  fall ; where  sorrow  and  pain  and 
hunger  never  come;  where  all  peoples  and 
nations  and  kindreds  and  tongues  mingle 
together,  may  we  have  a true  conception  of 
world  brotherhood,  the  kingdom  of  God  on 
earth. 

Graciously  send  the  promised  Comforter 
to  all  in  sorrow.  Heal  our  broken  hearts 
and  dry  our  tears  by  the  eternal  hope  that 
we  shall  all  meet  again  in  Thy  everlasting 
kingdom,  and  know  even  as  we  are  known. 
Amen. 

* * * 

MOTHERHOOD 

(April  Tenth) 

OH  God,  we  pray  for  Thy  blessing  upon 
the  mothers  of  our  nation  and  of  the 
world : 

Mothers  who  loved  us  into  being,  who 
rocked  the  cradle  and  kissed  the  hurts 
away ; 

Mothers  who  toil  until  their  hands  ache, 
who  sacrifice  until  their  hearts  ache,  who 
carry  heavy  burdens  that  their  boys  and 
girls  may  have  privileges  and  opportunities 
that  will  fit  them  for  life’s  service ; 

52 


Mothers  who  pray  that  their  sons  and. 
daughters  may  be  pure,  may  be  noble,  may 
be  worth  while ; 

Mothers  whose  devotion  to  high  ideals 
never  wavers  in  the  face  of  difficulties, 
temptations,  and  the  indifference  of  others ; 

Mothers  who  have  faith  in  their  own,  who 
hope  through  disappointments,  who  love  in 
spite  of  waywardness. 

God  bless  them  all.  Give  them  the  assur- 
ance of  Thy  good  pleasure  here  and  a place 
near  Thy  throne  in  glory.  Amen. 

* * * 

RIGHT  WORDS  AND  THOUGHTS 

(April  Eleventh) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  grant  that  this 
day  “the  words  of  our  mouths  and  the 
meditations  of  our  hearts  may  be  acceptable 
in  Thy  sight. ” 

Keep  us  from  saying  unkind  things. 
Keep  us  from  saying  untrue  and  impure 
things.  Keep  us  from  saying  discouraging 
things.  But  help  us  to  say  things  that 
will  encourage  and  ennoble,  and  fill  our 
neighbor's  life  with  sunshine  and  laughter. 

Help  us  to  think  not  only  of  how  we  can 
be  happy,  but  how  we  can  make  others 
happy. 


53 


May  we  think  not  only  of  our  own  success 
but  of  the  success  of  others. 

May  we  think  of  others’  burdens  and 
disappointments  and  difficulties  as  well  as 
our  own. 

“Cleanse  the  very  thoughts  of  our  hearts 
by  the  inspiration  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit  that 
we  may  perfectly  love  Thee,  and  worthily 
magnify  Thy  holy  name,  through  Christ  our 
Lord.”  Amen. 

* * * 

JOINT  RESPONSIBILITY 

(April  Fourteenth) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  we  thank  Thee 
for  this  company  of  men  and  women 
who  have  on  their  hearts  the  welfare  of  this 
commonwealth.  Men  and  women  whom 
the  citizens  of  this  state  have  honored.  May 
they  all  live  and  act  as  those  who  must  give 
an  account  to  man  and  to  God. 

We  thank  Thee  that  women  with  their 
keen  insight,  their  tender  sympathy  and  love 
that  passeth  knowledge,  have  found  their 
way  into  our  legislative  halls.  May  the 
presence  here  and  elsewhere  of  noble 
women  in  the  body  politic  help  to  ennoble, 
dignify  and  purify  it  all. 

Keep  us  all  steady  and  true  during  the 
strain  of  the  closing  days  of  the  session. 


54 


Guide  us  by  Thy  counsel,  and  at  last  receive 
us  to  Thyself  in  glory — through  Christ  our 
Lord.  Amen. 

* * * 

PATRIOTISM 

(April  Fifteenth) 

OUR  Heavenly  Father,  we  would  be 
patriotic.  We  would  be  true  to  God 
and  home  and  native  land. 

We  thank  Thee  for  the  Christian  Church 
and  the  part  it  has  played  in  putting  Thy 
laws  in  men’s  minds  and  writing  them  in 
their  hearts.  We  realize  that  the  men  who 
made  this  nation  great  were  men  who 
believed  in  God,  read  the  Bible,  and  said 
their  prayers. 

We  thank  Thee  for  the  products  of  our 
Christian  homes ; for  young  men  who  count 
not  their  own  lives  dear  to  them  when  their 
country  calls  them  to  defend  its  principles 
and  institutions ; for  daughters  and  mothers 
and  fathers  who  keep  the  home  fires 
burning. 

We  thank  Thee  for  our  native  land,  with 
a government  founded  upon  the  principles 
of  Christian  liberty.  We  thank  Thee  for 
great  leaders  of  the  past  who  loved  God 
supremely  and  gave  unsparingly  of  their 
best  for  their  nation’s  welfare. 


55 


We  thank  Thee  for  our  educational 
institutions,  where  all  classes  may  mingle 
together  in  the  spirit  of  true  democracy. 

We  thank  Thee  for  our  philanthropic 
institutions,  where  the  needy  and  unfortu- 
nate are  comforted. 

As  true  patriots  we  will  be  loyal  to  our 
Christian  institutions.  We  will  give  our 
money,  our  prayers,  our  lives  to  preserve 
the  eternal  principles  of  the  Stars  and 
Stripes!  To  this  end  help  us  until' “Thy 
kingdom  shall  come  and  Thy  will  be  done 
on  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven.”  Amen. 

* * * 

REST  AND  PEACE 

(April  Sixteenth) 

OH  God,  we  come  to  Thee.weary  in  body 
and  in  mind.  Forgive  us  if  our  devo- 
tions lag.  We  are  not  unmindful  of  all  Thy 
tender  mercies.  They  are  new  every  morn- 
ing. Thou  hast  said  “Come  unto  me,  all  ye 
that  labor  and  are  heavy  laden,  and  I will 
give  you  rest.”  Father,  we  come  to  Thee. 
Give  us  the  promised  rest.  Touch  each  one 
of  our  lives  so  we  may  know  that  Thou  art 
God,  and  that  Thou  art  the  rewarder  of  all 
those  who  diligently  seek  Thee.  Father,  we 
seek  Thee.  Hide  not  Thy  presence  from  us. 
Turn  again  and  bless  us ; cause  Thy  face  to 
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shine  upon  us  and  give  us  peace.  Wherein 
we  fail  in  asking,  fail  not  in  giving  the 
things  Thou  seest  we  need  so  much ; and 
Thy  name  which  is  worthy  shall  have  all 
the  praise.  Amen. 

* * * 

JOY— LOVE— UNITY 

(April  Seventeenth) 

OH  God,  we  remember  this  morning  the 
words  of  Jesus  to  His  disciples  the 
day  before  He  was  crucified  on  Calvary. 

He  told  them  how  they  might  have 
abounding  joy  all  the  time;  namely,  by 
keeping  God's  commandments  and  abiding 
in  His  love. 

Then  he  commanded  them  to  love  one 
another,  "Even  as  I have  loved  you,"  to  the 
extent  that  they  would  be  willing  to  lay 
down  their  lives  for  each  other. 

Then,  oh  wondrous  love,  He  lifted  up  His 
eyes  to  heaven  and  prayed  that  all  His 
disciples  might  have  eternal  life,  and  that  all 
who  believed  on  the  true  God  and  on  Jesus 
Christ  through  a study  of  the  Bible  might 
be  one. 

We  would  continue  this  morning  the 
prayer  of  our  Saviour,  that  all  Christians 
may  be  one  in  their  fight  against  sin.  That 

57 


all  Christians  may  be  one  in  their  effort  to 
establish  the  Kingdom  of  God  on  earth. 

We  pray  that  the  citizens  of  this  country 
may  be  one  in  their  love  of  justice,  mercy 
and  truth.  Amen. 

* * * 

CALVARY 

(Good  Friday — April  Eighteenth) 

OH  God,  we  bow  our  heads  in  shame 
when  we  remember  man's  part  in  the 
tragedy  of  Calvary. 

Men  who  drove  Christ  into  dark  Geth- 
semane,  where  the  struggle  with  sin  tore 
his  heart  cords  from  their  moorings ; a hurt 
that  nothing  can  heal  until  the  strain  of  a 
lost  world  is  lifted. 

Men  who  drove  Christ  to  cross-crowned 
Calvary,  where  the  bloodhounds  of  sin 
snarled  at  each  other  as  they  yelped  for  the 
blood  that  flowed  from  the  pierced  side ; 
while  the  rabble  jeered  “He  saved  others; 
Himself  He  can  not  save." 

But  Christ  did  not  come  into  this  world 
to  save  Himself.  He  came  to  save  others 
and  win  the  world  back  to  God.  For  us  He 
went  through  dark  Gethsemane.  For  us 
He  climbed  rugged  Calvary  bearing  His 
cross.  For  us  the  nails  pierced  His  hands 
and  the  sword  His  side.  We  will  love  Him. 


58 


We  will  honor  Him.  We  will  crown  Him 
Lord  of  all. 

“Were  the  whole  realm  of  nature  mine, 
That  were  an  offering  far  too  small; 
Love  so  amazing,  so  divine 
Demands  my  soul,  my  life,  my  all.” 

Good  Friday  is  the  best  day  this  sin-sick 
world  has  ever  known.  It  begets  in  every 
heart  an  eternal  hope  of  eternal  life  in  God’s 
eternal  home. 

We  bless  Thee  for  the  who-so-ever  of  the 
Gospel  made  possible  by  Calvary.  It  offers 
the  world  one  common  Mercy  Seat,  one 
common  Father,  ever  God,  one  final  resting 
place,  ever  heaven.  Jesus  speaks  to  us 
today  through  the  cross,  saying: 

“I  gave  my  life  for  thee 
What  hast  thou  given  for  Me?” 

Accept  at  this  time  our  heart’s  devotion. 
Amen. 

* * * 

THE  SHADOWS 

(April  Nineteenth) 

MOST  gracious  Heavenly  Father,  come 
near  to  us  this  morning,  and  gird  us 
for  the  trying  times  of  life.  There  are  so 
many  things  in  this  old  world  that  try  men’s 
souls.  So  many  things  we  depend  upon  fail 
us,  we  sometimes  lose  hope,  and  the 


59 


shadows  fall  across  our  pathway  thick  and 
fast. 

The  pleasure  and  happiness  we  looked  for 
with  the  accumulation  of  wealth  and  power 
have  not  come. 

Our  life  has  been  so  full  of  toil  and  cares 
and  disappointments  that  it  seems  hardly 
worth  while. 

Those  we  loved  best  and  depended  upon 
most  have  been  laid  away  in  the  silent  tomb. 
The  silver  cord  has  been  broken,  and  the 
mourners  go  about  the  streets.  The  dark- 
ness is  everywhere  and  our  hearts  ache. 

Oh  Master,  we  look  toward  the  east ; send 
us  the  sunlight  again  and  drive  away  the 
chill  and  dark  and  uncertainty  of  the  night. 
Hear  and  answer  us  right  early,  we  humbly 
pray.  Amen. 

* * * 

EASTER  JOY 

(April  Twenty-first) 

OH  God,  we  bless  Thee  for  the  joy  of 
Easter  time.  So  many  things  give  us 
added  joy  at  this  time — the  return  of  our 
soldiers  who  have  fought  in  a noble  cause ; 
the  prospect  of  a lasting  peace ; the  prospect 
of  the  coming  of  Thy  kingdom  more  fully 
in  the  world. 

We  are  glad  Christ  rose  again  and  ever 
liveth.  We  too  want  to  live  forever.  We 
60 


revel  in  the  thought  of  wandering  through 
eternity  as  long  as  eternity  lasts.  And 
Thou  hast  promised  eternal  life  to  all  Thy 
children.  We  bless  Thee  for  heaven  and  all 
its  glory,  and  yet  earth  seems  worth  while 
since  Christ  rose  again.  Everything,  every- 
body, sings  for  joy  since  death  has  been 
conquered.  We  bless  Thee  for  the  joy  of 
nature. 

“The  buds  of  trees  peep  forth  and  sing 
‘I’m  glad,  I’m  glad  because  it’s  spring/  ” 

Nature  is  so  happy  that  it  lures  us  to  the 
open.  We  love  the  chirp  of  the  cricket  and 
the  croak  of  the  frog,  and  the  fragrance  of 
the  upturned  furrow.  We  love  the  compan- 
ionship of  all  “Out-of-Doors.” 

“Oh  blessed  fellowship  divine, 

Oh  joy  supremely  sweet.” 

We  bless  Thee  for  the  joy  of  little 
children.  No  music  is  so  sweet  on  earth  or 
in  heaven  as  the  laughter  of  children.  We 
are  glad  Jesus  took  them  in  His  arms  and 
blessed  them,  and  said,  “Of  such  is  the  king- 
dom of  heaven.”  We  all  want  to  go  where 
children  laugh  and  sing  and  play,  and  sin 
with  its  sorrow  comes  not. 

We  bless  Thee  for  the  joy  that  fills  the 
hearts  of  Thy  aged  saints,  as  with  hoary 
heads  and  bent  forms  and  tired  feet  they 
61 


stand  waiting,  as  the  sun  is  setting,  for  their 
Father  to  take  them  back  home  to  heaven, 
for  their  day’s  work  on  earth  is  done. 

Give  us  all  the  purity  and  joy  of  child- 
hood, the  hope  and  ambition  of  youth,  and 
in  old  age  the  crown  of  glory.  Amen. 

* * * 

CLOSING  PRAYER 

(April  Twenty-second) 

FATHER,  as  we  draw  near  the  close  of 
this  session  we  ask  o'urselves,  “Have 
we  been  good  stewards?” 

Forgive  us  if  we  have  failed  individually 
or  collectively  to  measure  up  to  Thy 
expectations. 

We  thank  Thee  for  Thy  kindly  provi- 
dences ; they  have  been  more  than  we 
deserved. 

We  rejoice  in  the  good  cheer  and 
brotherly  fellowship  and  spirit  of  fairness 
of  all  the  members  and  attaches  of  this 
Assembly. 

We  rejoice  in  the  spirit  of  patriotism  and 
the  desire  to  promote  the  best  interests  of 
state  and  nation. 

We  rejoice  in  the  spirit  of  reverence  that 
has  marked  our  devotional  hour.  We  are 
glad  that  as  a nation  we  believe  in  God,  and 
62 


believe  that  He  hears  and  answers  when 
men  pray. 

Father,  grant  us  our  request  when  we 
pray  that  the  influence  of  the  quiet  moments 
of  prayer  we  have  enjoyed  together  may  be 
lasting  and  helpful. 

Grant  that  our  experiences  and  associa- 
tions here  may  make  us  worth  more  to 
ourselves,  our  country,  and  our  God. 

Bless  our  families.  May  our  homes  be 
our  happiest  and  most  sacred  place  on  earth. 

Give  to  our  Governor  and  all  in  authority 
wisdom  and  executive  ability. 

When  we  separate  we  can  hardly  hope  to 
all  meet  again  here  on  earth,  but  we  hope 
to  meet  and  greet  each  other  in  God’s  sum- 
mer land  of  song;  the  place  where  angels 
sing ; the  place  that  men  call  heaven.  Grant 
us  our  petition,  we  pray  in  Christ’s  name. 
Amen. 


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